The global computer network has transformed communication, yet despite the fact that this informational universe not only exists in the life of nearly every individual, it has its own laws and, of course, dangerous manifestations. People still take their information security too lightly.
Along with the convenience of using the global network come risks, especially when it comes to personal data. Maintaining privacy in the digital world is a critically important task since malicious actors can use your data for fraud, blackmail, or theft of money or identity.
In this article, we will explore five primary threats to personal data online and provide recommendations on how to avoid them.
Phishing Attacks
Phishing is a fraud method where attackers try to trick you into giving out confidential information by posing as trustworthy organizations or acquaintances. You might receive an email or message requesting your login, password, or bank card details.
For example, you might be offered very attractive conditions for purchasing goods or services, investments, or entertainment. However, upon visiting the link to the “very good” shop or site, your device becomes subject to a malware attack.
The main defence against such fraud is common sense and critical thinking. When you see an offer from an online casino “25 free spins no deposit“, you understand this is a real offer from a legitimate gaming platform, nothing strange about it.
But it’s still wise to read reviews about the casino on feedback sites or information aggregators. However, when you’re offered “goods worth £1000 for free” and prompted to download an app, caution is advised, and you should think: “if they’re giving away £1000 worth of goods for free to everyone, how do they have money for advertising?”
It quickly becomes clear that either you’ll be forced to buy these goods at triple the price, or they’ll simply steal your credit card details and withdraw all your money. The first is marketing, the second is crime. Both are bad for you.
How to avoid becoming a victim of phishers:
- Never click on links from suspicious emails or messages.
- Always check the sender: their address, the tone of the text, and the company logos.
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect important accounts.
- Install antivirus software capable of recognizing phishing attempts.
Weak Passwords
Weak or identical passwords for multiple services are an invitation for hackers. If attackers gain access to one of your accounts, they can easily breach others.
We understand the main argument of “12345” password advocates: yes, complex passwords are hard to remember. And writing them down on paper to carry in your wallet is not smart. But there are several straightforward solutions.
How to protect your passwords:
Create unique passwords for each account.
Use password generators or managers for creating and storing complex combinations. Check password managers for reliability by reading reviews on trusted sites and downloading only from reputable sources. I
f the company behind the software has Chinese or Russian founders, it is better to decline. Nothing personal against matryoshkas or pandas, but these countries are bases for the largest hacker groups, encouraged by their governments.
Set up two-factor, or better yet, three-factor authentication, particularly for the master password that unlocks your password manager. Configure confirmation to your mobile phone and email.
No attacker can hack all three simultaneously, and possession of at least one confirmation method allows you to block unauthorized access attempts.
Avoid using personal information (like birth dates or names) in passwords. Instead, use things familiar only to you for password creation. A line from your favorite childhood poem with numbers and special characters between words. Or your tax declaration number with your government wishes interspersed.
Don’t be afraid to forget passwords. All services now have password recovery functions.
We recommend updating passwords monthly, even if you remember them. Reset the password and create a new one, perhaps with the name of the new Prime Minister. It might become outdated soon, then change it again.
Data Leaks via Public Wi-Fi Networks
Don’t trust anyone anywhere!
Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafés or airports, are often inadequately secured. Attackers can intercept your data while you’re connected to such networks. Often, attackers create their own networks masquerading as authentic ones.
This happens in crowded places, especially where there are many teenagers who mostly don’t check if the name or password matches what’s posted at the reception.
How to prevent intrusion:
- Avoid entering confidential information (logins, passwords, card details) when using public Wi-Fi.
- Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your traffic.
- Check for a security certificate on websites before entering any data (the website address should start with “https://”).
- Use messaging apps that support end-to-end encryption. Generally, avoid discussing sensitive topics via messengers in public places. It’s simpler to turn off Wi-Fi, create a document or note, enable access, and pass the information. These aren’t spy games; these are real practices that should become routine.
Hacking of Social Media Accounts
This is bad. Very bad.
Social media platforms are common targets for attackers due to the vast amount of personal information they contain. Hacking your profile can lead to blackmail, identity theft, or even financial losses.
Remember the simple truth: once you’ve written something about yourself on any social media, you’ve made that information publicly available to the entire world. So filter what you want to say about yourself to the world.
But there’s an even greater danger: attackers might seize your social media, messengers, or website domain. Then, they could post anything in your name. The least evil is asking your friends for money. The scariest scenarios are hard to even imagine.
How to protect your digital platforms:
- Use two-factor authentication for your social media accounts.
- Limit the personal information you post (e.g., home address or phone number).
- Regularly check your privacy settings.
- Do not download any apps, programs, scripts, etc., from unverified sources.
Malicious Software (Viruses and Trojans)
Malware like viruses, Trojans, and spyware can steal your data or block access to it, demanding ransom. Modern antivirus programs catch these quite effectively.
However, there can be exceptions capable of not only stealing your money but also, say, shutting down a nuclear reactor at the station where you work through your smartphone. Calm down, it’s not that scary, but these programs can cause harm.
How to prevent:
- Download apps only from official sources.
- Regularly update your operating system and antivirus.
- Do not open attachments from suspicious emails.
General Recommendations for Data Protection
In addition to specific measures for each threat, follow these general rules:
- Backup. Regularly back up your data on external drives or cloud services.
- Awareness. Learn more about current fraud methods and protection skills online.
- Data Minimization. Provide only necessary information during site or app registrations.
- Permission Check. Carefully monitor what permissions you grant to mobile apps.
- Regular Monitoring. Check your bank accounts and account histories for suspicious activity.
The strange new world dictates new rules. Following the security of your data is the top one. Perform these simple actions we’ve described above, and you’ll be able to at least partially safeguard yourself from the challenges of the new era.